As we have closed out the month of May and welcomed June, it's pretty much assumed at this point that we are officially in "summer" mode. In Florida, that means more than the end of school and planning for vacations...it also means hurricane season, routine thunderstorms, and HEAT. This can take a toll on your roof over time, and if you've skipped having routine inspections done in the past, now is the time to make up for it.

How exactly can summer put your roof at risk?

• Hurricanes. June 1st marked the kickoff of hurricane season 2021, and while there are no storms on the radar right now, we all know that can change in a matter of days. Hurricanes bring an incredible amount of rain, and in more serious cases, strong winds. These two elements alone can be detrimental to your roof even if it's in good shape, but if there are any weak spots or existing damage, even one minor hurricane could prove catastrophic. Things to watch for include loose or missing shingles, damaged flashing or roof vents, and clogged gutters if your home has them. Unfortunately, other issues that could leave your roof compromised can't be seen with the naked eye from the ground. That's why annual roof inspections or vital to protecting your home. Spots that are aging, or damage going on beneath the shingles, will be caught early and repaired before it has a chance to be a bigger (and more expensive) problem.

• Thunderstorms. Florida is known for its afternoon thunderstorms during the summer months. The lightning is impressive, but the RAIN is what really stands out. It can go from sunny to monsoon in a matter of seconds, and when your roof has to stand up to that heavy rain day after day for months, it can lead to leaks. What's more, the continued exposure to water can harbor moisture and condensation (including your attic!) and that can lead to the decay of wood and roof materials over time. Again, roof inspections are the best way to combat these problems, as professionals check for hidden moisture or weak areas that you might not see on your own.

• Heat. The Sunshine State got its name for a reason. The sun is intense, and our summers are hot. The extreme temperatures take a toll on your roof after a while. Shingles break down more quickly in Florida, and a roof that should last 30 years might only make it to 15. Taking measures to extend the life of your roof saves you money in the long run, and also protects your home (and your home's insurance policy) when bad weather does come your way. When it is time to replace your roof, hiring a roofing contractor that has your best interests at heart and runs and honest, ethical business, is key. You need someone who will help you choose the best materials for the job, and is experienced with Florida's conditions, so you will get the maximum number of years out of your new roof.

  EZ Roofing Systems is proud to serve the greater Polk County community with the very best in customer care and quality service. We provide roof inspections, repair services, and full replacement options for homes of all sizes and styles. We put your needs first, giving you an honest and accurate report, and working with you to find the best solution for our needs and your budget. Give us a call to schedule your inspection and to receive a detailed estimate for your roof.

It goes without saying that a roof is a very important part of your home. In fact, your house wouldn't even BE a home without a roof overhead, since it offers shelter, protection from elements, insulation from the heat or cold weather, and basically, it just tops off your home (pun intended). Here in Central Florida, those aspects are key, since we have extreme heat and excessive sunshine, and we also endure heavy storms and rain during the summer months. Add in the threat of hurricanes and you see just how important a roof is for Florida homes, and how vital it is that homeowners maintain their roof and replace as needed to protect their investment in their house. 

Maintaining and replacing a roof though is not a wise DIY option. Roofing is not something you just pick up and learn as you go. An oversight, no matter how small, could result in major damage to your roof and long-term issues. Additionally, choosing a roofing expert affects your insurance, since using someone unqualified (including yourself) can mean loss of coverage, or failure to process a claim in the event of an accident or problem. 

So, how should you choose a roofer? 

Licensed and Insured.  This is, hands down, the most important part of choosing a roofer. Ask for those licensure numbers, and check them twice. If your roofer has the proper license and certifications, he or she will (usually) have the appropriate insurance as well, but it's always wise to check. These requirements protect you in the event that something goes wrong, or your roof has issues down the line. 

Experience. Much is learned through hands-on experience, and while a roofer who is new to the field can still do a great job, there is something reassuring about using a provider who has extensive experience. Look for a roofer who has been in business a long time, has experience in a variety of areas (not just maintenance for example, but also in roof repair and replacement), and is very well established in your community. 

Referrals.  Proof of the experience mentioned above comes through referrals. If they aren't provided up front, request referrals from your chosen rooferbefore you sign the deal and let him or her begin work on your home. Hearing from other customers firsthand lets you know what to watch out for with a particular roofing expert. Perhaps your prospective roofer does high quality work, offers great pricing, but is a little slow on the billing and paperwork side of things, or maybe they have crisp, efficient billing and work methods, but their personal demeanor is distinct and doesn't mesh well with everyone. Hearing things like this from others who have used a particular roofer can help you make an informed decision that you can feel confident in. 

If you are local to the greater Winter Haven area here in Central Florida, EZ Roofing Systems is here to help with any and all of your roofing needs. We are fully licensed and insured, have years of experience in our field, and are well-established in the Polk County community and beyond. We offer routine maintenance, repair services, and full roof replacement, so no matter your need, we're ready for it. Give us a call, and we'll personally come out and inspect your situation so we can give you a full and accurate quote. We make the whole process "EZ!"